How to Save Big While Living in the USA: A Practical Guide for Expats

Having lived in the 🇺🇸 USA for a decade, I often get asked by friends about where to find the best deals. Today, I’m excited to share several practical resources I frequently use to save money! Whether you’re a newly arrived student or a working professional, these tips will definitely come in handy. Let’s dive in!

1️⃣ TooGoodToGo

This app lets you buy “surprise” boxes of leftover food at a fraction of the retail price. 🍜 Most of the items are actually fresh and not just leftovers! For example, you can find great deals on items like Eataly’s bread boxes, premium Wagyu, and delicious mochi donuts. It’s a fun way to discover new foods while saving money!

2️⃣ HungryPanda

If you crave authentic Chinese cuisine, HungryPanda is a must-have for takeout. Their promotional activities are fantastic; I’ve snagged half-price bubble tea and VIP discounts up to 90% off! With two bubble teas costing only $2, you can’t go wrong. One-person meal sets for just a few bucks make it super convenient for quick meals!

3️⃣ Dealmoon

For beauty and fashion enthusiasts, Dealmoon offers incredible discounts on major brands. It’s also a treasure trove of useful everyday tips, making it ideal for new arrivals in the 🇺🇸. Don’t miss their flash sales for the best savings!

4️⃣ Rakuten

For those looking for cashback opportunities, Rakuten is a game-changer. You can earn cash back on every purchase, which is directly deposited into your account. It’s an effortless way to make your dollars stretch further!

5️⃣ Hongmall

Hongmall frequently showcases amazing deals, often at 0.1 🔪 discounts, on beauty products and snacks that are usually pricier in supermarkets. This app can help you stock up on favorites without breaking the bank!

6️⃣ Chase Sapphire Preferred

While various banks offer points, I’ve found the Chase Sapphire Preferred to deliver the best value. The point conversion rate of 1:1.25 is amazing, perfect for redeeming flights or hotel accommodations. It’s a smart investment for travelers!

7️⃣ Fetch

Another creative way to save is by using Fetch app. Simply upload your grocery receipts and earn points that can be redeemed for cash. It’s a simple yet effective way to get some money back on everyday purchases.

8️⃣ YesMeal

YesMeal is a fantastic grocery app for fresh produce. Their vegetables and fruits are top-notch, and they often surprise you with seasonal freebies! I’ve received delicious fruits like 🍐 pears, 🍉 watermelons, and 🍊 oranges with my orders!

9️⃣ Chevron

When it comes to fueling up, Chevron offers a points program where you can earn rewards with every fill-up. These points can eventually translate into discounts on future gas purchases, enhancing your budget management while driving around.

In summary, there are multiple handy apps and services that can help you save money while living in the USA. From food deals to cashback opportunities, these resources are essential for anyone looking to make the most of their budget. Happy saving! 💸